Smoked Haddock and Mash is a simple yet elegant dish that brings comfort and flavour to the table. It is a meal that feels both traditional and special, making it a great choice for a cosy family dinner or a more refined occasion. The combination of smoked haddock, creamy mashed potatoes, peas, and a delicate white sauce with chives creates a balanced and satisfying plate.
One of the highlights of this dish is the smoked haddock itself. The fish is gently poached in milk, a technique that not only keeps it tender but also enhances its naturally smoky, slightly sweet flavour. The milk helps to mellow out the saltiness, creating a beautifully delicate taste that pairs perfectly with the other elements on the plate.
Then comes the mashed potatoes—a must-have side that brings warmth and comfort. A good, buttery mash provides the perfect base for the fish, soaking up any delicious flavours from the plate. It adds a smooth and creamy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the flakiness of the haddock.
Peas are the ideal vegetable to complete this dish. Their bright green colour adds a fresh and inviting touch, while their natural sweetness complements the smoky fish and rich mash. Whether they are simply steamed or lightly buttered, they bring a little burst of flavour and a touch of vibrancy to the plate.
The finishing touch is the white sauce, made even more delightful with the addition of fresh chives. This sauce ties everything together, adding a light, creamy element that enhances the flavours without overpowering them. The chives provide a gentle onion-like freshness, lifting the dish and adding a bit of colour.
What makes Smoked Haddock and Mash such a lovely dish is its simplicity. There is nothing overly complicated here—just good, wholesome ingredients that work together beautifully. It is a meal that feels homely yet elegant, with a well-balanced mix of flavours and textures.
This dish is perfect for any time of year, but it is particularly wonderful on cooler evenings when a warm and comforting meal is just what you need. Whether enjoyed as a weeknight treat or served to guests for a special occasion, Smoked Haddock and Mash is always a welcome choice.
If you love classic flavours and comforting meals, this dish is one to try. The combination of tender smoked haddock, creamy mash, sweet peas, and a delicate white sauce makes for a truly satisfying and delicious experience.
Smoked Haddock with Mash
Ingredients
- 4 medium smoked haddock fillets
- 600 ml whole milk
- 800 g potatoes peeled and chopped
- 50 g unsalted butter
- 100 ml double cream
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- 200 g frozen peas
For the sauce:
- 25 g plain flour
- 25 g unsalted butter
- 250 ml milk
- salt to taste
- ground pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh chives chopped
Instructions
- Place the smoked haddock fillets in a large pan and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cover with the milk. Poach over low heat for about 8-10 minutes until the fish is tender and flakes easily.4 medium smoked haddock fillets, 600 ml whole milk, salt, pepper
- Meanwhile, boil the potatoes in salted water for about 15 minutes until soft.800 g potatoes
- Drain and mash with butter, cream, salt, and pepper until smooth.50 g unsalted butter, 100 ml double cream, salt, pepper
- Cook the peas according to packet instructions, then drain and set aside.200 g frozen peas
- In a separate pan, melt 25g butter, stir in the flour and cook for a minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until a smooth sauce forms. Season with salt and pepper if needed.25 g plain flour, 25 g unsalted butter, 250 ml milk, salt, ground pepper
- Simmer until thickened, then stir in the chopped chives.1 tbsp fresh chives
- To serve, plate the mashed potatoes, top with the poached haddock, and serve with peas and the chive-infused white sauce.